Abstract

Despite the considerable emphasis on guidelines for prophylaxis against venous thromboembolic disease, this complication still can occur after any orthopaedic surgery. Therefore, the general principles and methods of prophylaxis need to be understood by all orthopaedic surgeons to ensure proper implementation. Variations in the recommendations of different guidelines have been observed, however. Often, the type of prophylaxis is dictated at the orthopaedic surgeon's discretion on a case-by-case basis. In addition, blood management and the control of perioperative blood loss remain serious issues. Given the complications and infection risk associated with transfusions, a shift has been seen toward the greater use of antifibrinolytics to manage perioperative blood loss.

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Orthopaedic Knowledge Online Journal
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